@Ps 140:1-13. The style of this Psalm resembles those of David in the former part of the book, presenting the usual complaint, prayer, and confident hope of relief.
1. evil man--Which of David's enemies is meant is not important.
2-5. This character of the wicked, and the devices planned against the pious, correspond to @Ps 10:7 31:13 58:4, &c.
3. sharpened . . . like a serpent--not like a serpent does, but they are thus like a serpent in cunning and venom.
5. snare [and] net--for threatening dangers (compare @Ps 38:12 57:6).
6. (Compare @Ps 5:1-12 16:2).
7. day of battle--literally, "of armor," that is, when using it.
8. (Compare @Ps 37:12 66:7).
lest they exalt themselves--or, they will be exalted if permitted to
prosper.
9. Contrasts his head covered by God (@Ps 140:7) with theirs, or (as "head" may be used for "persons") with them, covered with the results of their wicked deeds (@Ps 7:16).
10. (Compare @Ps 11:6 120:4).
cast into the fire; into deep pits--figures for utter destruction.
11. an evil speaker--or, "slanderer" will not be tolerated (@Ps 101:7). The last clause may be translated: "an evil (man) He (God) shall hunt," &c.
12. (Compare @Ps 9:4).
13. After all changes, the righteous shall have cause for praise.
Such
shall dwell--shall sit securely, under God's protection
(@Ps 21:6 41:12).